Bradford and Kirklees merger plan due to ‘lack of cash’

Proposals for a partnership between Bradford and Kirklees Building Control Services will go before Bradford councillors next Tuesday.

In recent years the departments have seen a reduction in staff levels and the loss of specialist expertise which has caused a financial problems due to competition from the private sector.

A report to Bradford’s Executive says that the merger would secure the future of the service in the face of challenging market conditions.

Unlike many other council services, building control competes with private sector organisations who can also carry out building inspections.

The report explores options including a merger or setting up a separate company under the joint ownership of both councils.

A Bradford Council spokesman said it had 33 staff but would not comment on possible job cuts.

“Both options would be expected to deliver economies of scale, improved productivity and provide a service with a higher profile to compete better with the private sector,” the spokesman added.